Nairobi: Leaders have urged the Nandi community to safeguard its cultural heritage and strengthen traditional institutions amid rapid modernization, saying indigenous values remain critical in promoting peace, unity, and social cohesion. The call was made during the installation of Augustine Kisorio as the new National Chairman of the Nandi Kaburwo Council of Elders at the University of East Africa Baraton.
According to Kenya News Agency, the colorful ceremony attracted elders from across the country, national and county government leaders, religious leaders, and residents, underscoring the enduring influence of the Kaburwo Council as the custodian of Nandi traditions, cultural identity, and community leadership. For generations, the Nandi Kaburwo Council of Elders has served as the traditional institution responsible for promoting peace, resolving disputes, preserving cultural practices, and advising leaders on issues affecting the welfare of the community.
Although formal government institutions now perform many administrative functions, the council continues to complement them by promoting reconciliation, family unity, responsible leadership, and respect for cultural values. Speaking after taking over from outgoing chairman Benjamin Kitur, Kisorio pledged to strengthen the council and deepen its engagement with government institutions, religious organisations, and the wider community.
Kisorio emphasized that the day marked a collective responsibility to preserve the heritage of the Nandi people. He highlighted the commitment to promote peace, mentor young people, protect cultural identity, and offer objective counsel to leaders. He reiterated that the Kaburwo Council would remain non-partisan and dedicated to serving the interests of the community.
Kisorio noted that the council would continue promoting dialogue and reconciliation while mentoring the younger generation to appreciate the importance of culture, integrity, and responsible citizenship. Head of Public Service Felix Koskei praised the elders for their continued contribution to national unity and stability, acknowledging traditional institutions as important partners in governance and development.
Koskei urged the council to guide young people by instilling values of discipline, integrity, patriotism, and respect for cultural heritage. He recognized the invaluable contribution of councils of elders in conflict resolution, peace building, and preserving cultural heritage while encouraging collaboration with the government to promote unity and development initiatives.
Nandi Governor Stephen Sang congratulated Kisorio on his installation, describing the Kaburwo Council as one of the county’s most respected traditional institutions. He affirmed the county government’s commitment to partnering with the council in promoting peace, environmental conservation, youth empowerment, and community development programs.
Sang stressed the elders’ role as custodians of identity and history, providing guidance and solutions even in today’s changing world. He pledged continued support for cultural programs that preserve heritage and promote peaceful coexistence, youth empowerment, and sustainable development across Nandi County.
The installation ceremony blended traditional customs with modern leadership practices as elders dressed in traditional regalia conducted symbolic rites to mark the peaceful transfer of authority before Kisorio officially assumed office. Traditional songs, dances, and blessings accompanied the ceremony, highlighting the cultural significance of the leadership transition and the responsibility entrusted to the new chairman.
Over the years, the Kaburwo Council has remained instrumental in resolving land disputes, mediating family conflicts, and promoting reconciliation through customary dispute resolution mechanisms rooted in dialogue and consensus. Many residents continue to seek the elders’ intervention due to their emphasis on fairness, restorative justice, and preserving relationships.
The council has also expanded its role in addressing emerging social challenges, including drug and substance abuse, gender-based violence, family breakdown, and declining respect for cultural values among young people. Through mentorship forums and community outreach programs, the elders encourage youth to embrace education, entrepreneurship, hard work, and responsible citizenship while remaining proud of their cultural identity.
Participants observed that as globalization and urbanization continue to reshape society, traditional institutions such as the Kaburwo Council remain vital in preserving indigenous knowledge, language, and governance systems while complementing modern state institutions. Residents expressed confidence that Kisorio’s leadership would strengthen unity within the council and enhance collaboration with government, religious organisations, and development partners in promoting peace, cultural preservation, and sustainable development.
